About this role
Job summary: To inspire and prepare all students with the confidence, courage and competence to achieve their dreams; contribute to community; and engage in a lifetime of learning by supporting students and assisting the special education teacher in the operation and function of the classroom. To work with individual or small groups of students as assigned. We are seeking a patient, proactive Educational Support Professional (ESP) to provide dedicated, full-day 1:1 support for a student in our Center-Based Special Education program. In this role, you will play a vital part in the student's daily routine, helping them navigate specialized learning environments, build key skills, and achieve their full potential in a safe, structured setting.
Responsibilities and tasks include:
• Provide continuous 1:1 support throughout the 6-hour school day, assisting with academic tasks, communication tools, and daily functional routines.
• Execute accommodations, modifications, and positive behavior support plans detailed in the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP).
• Partner closely with center-based special education teachers, therapists, and grade-level staff to track progress and implement target strategies.
• Assist with physical, sensory, or specialized care needs as outlined in the student's care plan.
• Foster an inclusive, compassionate environment while encouraging independence and social-emotional growth
• Any other duties deemed necessary by the team and approved by the Special Education Coordinator/Special Education Supervisor.
• Participation in district training program prior to and during employment.
Minimum qualifications include:
• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Applicants must be considered Highly Qualified (HQ) to work as a special education paraprofessional by their start date per the Minnesota Department of Education.
• Applicants meet the Highly Qualified requirement if they have:
• Two years of study at an institution of higher education (a minimum of 60 semester credits or the amount required to complete two years of full-time enrollment as determined by the institution attended); OR
• An associate's degree (or higher); OR
• Received a passing score on the ParaPro, ParaEducator, or ParaPathways Assessment.
• The District will pay for the assessment.
Knowledge, skills, and abilities include:
• Persons employed shall have the skills needed to perform tasks and work with children, staff and parents.
• Must have physical capability to lift and attend to physical needs of students as required.
Bargaining unit: Educational Support Professionals Salary: Classification 2; View salary grid on the respective bargaining unit listed above, accessible via our Employee Contracts page Work schedule: 6 hours/day, school days only FTE: Part-time school year Desired start date: 9/8/2026 Osseo Area Schools offers:
• Meaningful and impactful work
• Opportunities to grow professionally
• A variety of benefits
• Mentorship programs for teachers and educational support professionals
• Summer opportunities
• ...and more!
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Osseo Area School District ISD 279 is an Equal Opportunity, and veteran-friendly employer. Osseo Area School District ISD 279 ensures equal employment opportunities regardless of race, creed, gender, color, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation or disability. Osseo Area School District is committed to a workforce that reflects the diversity of the district and strongly encourages persons to apply who can strengthen our diversity. For more information, view the District's Equal Opportunity and Prohibition Against Discrimination, Harassment and Violence Policy. Veteran's Preference: If you are an eligible veteran, please submit a legible copy of your DD214 with your application. Accommodation: If you have a disability that requires an accommodation during the selection process, please email Human Resources at [email protected] or call 763-391-7007. Background Check Upon Conditional Offer: Background checks are conducted upon receiving a conditional offer. Employees must complete a background check and are responsible for the background fee. A passing background is required. Criminal convictions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.